Millau Bridge

What are the most recommended things to do in Millau Bridge?

Admire the breathtaking views of the Millau Bridge from nearby viewpoints, take a guided tour to learn about its engineering, and visit the visitor center for interactive exhibits. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling in the surrounding natural landscapes.


Introducing Millau Bridge

The Millau Viaduct Bridge, located in southern France, is part of the A75 highway project connecting Paris to the Languedoc coast and even extending it to connect with the Barcelona Expressway in Spain. The town of Millau is a bottleneck on this section of the road. The bridge spans the Tarn Valley, with the Larzac Plateau and the Les Veuve Plateau at either end, with another expressway winding through it. The total length of the bridge is 20 miles. After the opening of the Millau Bridge, the driving time on this section of the road was reduced from 3 hours to 10 minutes.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Millau Bridge

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Millau Bridge, completed in 2004, is one of the tallest bridges in the world and a marvel of modern engineering. It spans the Tarn River Valley in southern France, connecting the cities of Millau and Clermont-Ferrand. The bridge was designed by renowned architect Norman Foster and is a key symbol of France's technological prowess.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Millau Bridge is located in southern France, near the town of Millau in the Aveyron department. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bus from Millau city center. The nearest train station is in Millau, and from there you can take a bus or taxi to the bridge.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Millau Bridge can be visited at any time of day, but the best times for photos and views are during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is ideal. The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is a toll fee for crossing the bridge, which ranges from €7 to €10 depending on the type of vehicle. The Visitor Center is free to enter, and tickets for guided tours or special exhibitions can be purchased on-site or online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets for the Visitor Center or bridge access in advance. However, for guided tours or special events, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during the tourist season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Millau Bridge, including a stop at the Visitor Center and viewing platforms, typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to explore the surrounding natural area or take part in outdoor activities, allocate 3 to 4 hours for a more relaxed visit.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the Millau Bridge itself, especially from the viewing platforms. The Visitor Center offers interesting exhibits about the bridge’s construction, and the surrounding Tarn Valley offers picturesque landscapes perfect for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in French and English. The Visitor Center also offers audio guides in several languages, including French, English, and German, for a more in-depth experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the nearby viewing platforms along the D992 road and from the Millau Viaduct Visitor Center. Sunset and sunrise provide the most dramatic lighting for the bridge and the surrounding Tarn Valley.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Visitor Center to learn about the bridge’s history and engineering. Then, head to one of the panoramic viewpoints along the D992 road for stunning views of the bridge in the valley. If you have time, explore the surrounding natural parks for hiking and outdoor activities.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While the Millau Bridge is beautifully lit at night, there are no scheduled light shows. However, the bridge’s illumination provides a unique view in the evening. Special tours may be available during the summer months, so it’s best to check in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Millau Bridge can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings and late afternoons during the off-season (fall and spring).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The Visitor Center has clean restrooms, a café offering drinks and light snacks, and a gift shop selling souvenirs related to the bridge. There are also picnic areas nearby for visitors who prefer to bring their own food.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, the Millau Bridge and the Visitor Center are fully accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The center offers wheelchair access, and the viewpoints are reachable via paved paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the Visitor Center, restaurants, and shops. Cash is still accepted, but it is recommended to use cards for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafés near the Millau Bridge, offering traditional French cuisine and local specialties. The café at the Visitor Center also serves snacks and drinks with views of the bridge.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, but there are a few options in the town of Millau itself.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Ibis Millau, Hotel Campanile, and Hotel Du Parc. For more luxurious stays, consider Le Domaine de Saint-Estève or Les Terrasses du Diamant.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other attractions include the Parc Naturel Régional des Grands Causses, the Millau Museum, and the Gorges du Tarn. These can be easily combined into a day trip from the bridge.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops at the Visitor Center selling items such as miniature models of the bridge, postcards, local handicrafts, and traditional French goods.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can continue your trip by car, as the Millau Bridge is well-connected by the A75 motorway. There are also bus services connecting Millau to nearby towns, and the train station in Millau offers connections to other French cities.